Jessie Voigts's Blog, page 71
November 9, 2021
Three Transformative Mexican Artists Making a Powerful Mark on the World
Transformation, whether personal or societal, is an experience that touches nearly every human soul. It is certainly a theme that has touched me deeply: several years ago, a surgeon’s error transformed my life by leaving me with a lifetime of medical issues. The transformation was both physical, creating a host of challenges I must deal with on a daily basis, and spiritual, leading me to find space in my heart to forgive the surgeon in order to heal and ...
Afghanistan Spotlight: The Importance of International Cooperation for Afghan Women and Girls
~ Fawzia Koofi, former Republic Peak Negotiator and first woman Deputy Speaker of Parliament in Afghanistan
This article will focus on some of the events that have taken place since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, 30th September 2021, specifically highlighting the promises that have not been carried out by the Taliban government surrounding women’s education and jobs. I will also eviden...
November 3, 2021
Climate Change: Rising Sea Levels and Displacement

In 2020, a concerning new record high in the global mean sea level was documented. i An increase in approximately 8-9 inches since 1880 was recorded; over a third of this increase has happened within the last two decades. ii Sea levels are continuing to rise and at an alarming rate, jeopardising the lives and livelihood of many human beings.
Those who live on small islands, and within close proximity to our oceans, face the highest ri...
November 2, 2021
Artist Spotlight: Matthew Brinston
When death leads to life, art is inevitable. And art, as creation, is a reflection of its creator. Brinston and his work consistently grapple with the revolution of death and life and death again. The cacophonous symphony of color and shape, rhythm and structure that compose his work is all at once chaotic and calm. Just as the artist himself is an amalgam of mania and peace. The composition of art and artist is indistinguishable... just as his art ...
November 1, 2021
Through the Eyes of an Educator: The Practice & Discovery of Self Care
Have you ever heard of the term self-care? Do you roll your eyes, thinking it’s all sorts of woo woo nonsense? Do you embrace it fully, relishing in those moments you make sure to take time for you? Do you think it might be nice, but when on earth are you supposed to find the time for that kind of thing? Or, do you find yourself a little bit interested but completely unsure of how to go about it? At one point or another, I’ve hit every stage of these questions. W...
October 31, 2021
How to Plan the Perfect Long Island Beach Trip
One of the reasons Long Island is so popular with New Yorkers and people from well beyond the big city is its beaches. A 118-mile stretch of land that juts into the Atlantic, there are many great options, with the Hamptons a classic.
Here, Copper's Beach in Southampton is often ranked among the country's by a variety of publications, with white sandy shores against a backdrop of magnificent historic mansions and nature.
Jones Beach is a pop...
October 23, 2021
Artist Spotlight: Masha Ermeeva

Through her expressionistic, gestural figures, Masha Ermeeva transcends complex emotional and psychological states, exploring such themes as intimacy, duality, femininity, personal and interpersonal relationships.
Trust
Studying at the Art Academy in Russia, Masha went through intense traditional training and developed a strong understanding of human figure proportions. After she relocated to the US in 2011, she graduated from FIU with BFA and cont...
October 20, 2021
Afghanistan Spotlight: Historical Context and Transnational Feminism for Afghan Women
Throughout time in the Middle East, women have been considered second class citizens and have had to fight for their basic human rights.
This article will focus on a historical context into Afghan women’s rights and further look into the importance of transnational feminism.
In Afghanistan, women gained equality under the 1964 constitution, which was only in place between 1964-1973. The...
October 19, 2021
How to Test Journalistic Sources: Bias Is All Around You
Note: This book? It's an incredibly important read—and tool—for educators, parents, and students.
Bias Is All Around You! Can you separate fact from fiction to safeguard your mental health? Let this handbook be your guide for inspecting all the information you are exposed to in social media today. If you cannot properly assess information bias, it could:
1. Lead you to follow a false cause
2. Leave you feeling foolish
3. Tarnish your credibility
4. Attract the wrong people
5. Create undu...
October 18, 2021
Music for Autumn's Connections

Reflection, transition, change: autumn weather, as well as the celebrations, traditions, and memories which go along with the season, invite each of these. That is also the case for the music you will be exploring in this episode of Music for Shifting Times.
In the song Travel These Ways, Karine Polwart and Dave Milligan consider connections of hope, persistence, and friendship lasting through change. You will hear Karine singing and Dave on piano. Listen out es...